Monday, March 14, 2016

Some years ago I was a part of Blogger Preview Nights at the Ordway Theater in St. Paul, Minnesota. I had the opportunity to see many fantastic productions; from The Wizard of Oz to Anything Goes. That program ended and I discovered shortly thereafter, the Social Media Preview Nights at the Minnesota Opera, also at the Ordway Theater.

I had only been to one Opera before this and I was mesmerized. My love for all things theater is quite large and I am open to seeing any kind when given the opportunity. Well, I was given the opportunity to see a working dress rehearsal of the opera Tosca last Thursday evening and I will tell you, I was floored. First, I must mention that the Ordway is a beautiful theater and the sets of this production made it even more so. Rich, dark browns and magnificent reds and golds enhanced the turmoil and drama of the story.For those who are not familiar, here is a quick synopsis of the story, taken from the* Ordway's website:"A fiery prima donna, an idealistic artist and a manipulative chief of
police find themselves entangled in a web of drama in this spellbinding
classic. Tosca’s allegiance to her lover, Cavaradossi, is put to the
ultimate test by the obsessive Scarpia who will stop at nothing to
possess her. This magnificent tale of deceit, love and honor brims with
sumptuous music and unforgettable arias."

Fiery, indeed. The voice of Kelly Kaduce who plays Tosca is powerful, passionate, and red hot. Watching her, especially in the informal moments of practice, was amazing. Some might be a bit discouraged because Operas are traditionally sung in other languages; Tosca was sung in Italian, however, there are English subtitles played above the stage and following along is really quite easy once you get going.I am not a formal reviewer of theater. Books are my specialty on this blog but my passion for theater is easy to express. So, I must say, with enthusiasm, if you have not seen on Opera, please do so. Tosca would be a wonderful start.

You have many opportunities. Click this link.

http://www.mnopera.org/season/2015-2016/tosca/

*Preliminary run time of 2 hours and 42 minutes, including two intermissions.

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All material is Copyright 2009-2016 by Michelle Wermerskirchen @www.Red Headed Book Child.com. Material that is quoted from another source will be listed. If you see any material from this site on another, they are in violation of my copyright. Thank you.